Emergency Vehicles: Understanding the Rules of the Road

Understanding what to do when approaching or coming up behind emergency vehicles is essential to avoid dangerous situations on Texas streets and highways. The rules of the road are relatively simple. Many people, however, are not aware of the precise rules applicable to these situations. Have you been injured in an accident because of someone else’s failure to observe basic driving rules? If so, contacting a Houston traffic accident lawyer will help ensure that you get the treatment and compensation that you deserve.

Rules Regarding Right-of-Way for Emergency Vehicles

Texas traffic laws outline the following requirements for motorists when approaching or being approached by ambulances, fire trucks or police cars:

When being approached by an authorized emergency vehicle, the motorist must yield the right-of-way and move as far to the right as possible without blocking any intersection. The driver must stop and remain stopped until the emergency vehicle has passed.

When approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with its lights flashing, the driver must move over to leave a clear lane of traffic between the emergency vehicle if possible. The driver must also slow down to 20 miles under the posted speed limit. If the speed limit is less than 25 miles per hour, the driver should drive at a speed not exceeding five miles per hour.

Following an emergency vehicle at a distance closer than 500 feet is also prohibited under Texas law except for certain authorized motor vehicle operators.

Failure to observe these rules could increase your chance of being involved in an accident. Calling a Houston traffic accident lawyer as soon as possible after a collision will ensure that you protect yourself and are given fair compensation for injuries.

At DeSimone Law Office, we specialize in providing help for all types of auto accident and personal injury cases. Call our offices today at 713-526-0900 to schedule a free initial consultation. Our team wants to be your attorneys for life.